The Haitian community in Massachusetts is in mourning.
IFSI Assistant Executive Director Franklin Dalembert passed away yesterday, Sunday.
News of Mr. Dalembert’s passing was announced by the Executive Director of the Immigrant Family Services Institute (IFSI), Dr. Géralde Gabeau.
“It is with great sadness that we share this news with our friends, partners and members of the IFSI family,” wrote Dr. Géralde Gabeau in a statement posted on the IFSI Facebook page.
Franklin Dalembert served the Haitian community for over four decades. He had worked in several non-profit organizations in several states including Florida and Massachusetts.
“Franklin was the epitome of dedication and passion, always putting his work ahead of the curve to advance our mission of supporting those who need it most,” said IFSI Director Dr. Géralde Gabeau, who introduced Mr. Dalembert as “a pillar of our community, a valued member of the IFSI family, whose contributions have been invaluable.”
Franklin Dalembert was best known for his effective leadership. He was always calm, always ready to solve problems amicably and to fly to the aid of his workmates, friends and anyone else in his entourage, according to the testimonies of several people who had the privilege of working with him.
“Franklin’s passing leaves a huge void in our hearts and in our daily operations. Please allow us some time to mourn and honor the memory of our dear colleague,” lamented IFSI’s Executive Director, who took the opportunity to appeal to IFSI’s customers for understanding.
The IFSI doors were closed to the general public on Monday. A thanksgiving service was held in memory of Franklin Dalembert.
Although IFSI is not operating at full capacity during this painful period, IFSI’s Executive Director promises to continue to pursue the organization’s mission and “honor Franklin Dalembert’s legacy”. “We pledge to perpetuate his memory and continue his work on behalf of our community,” promised Géralde Gabeau.
Born on April 26, 1958, Franklin Dalembert celebrated his 66th birthday in a few days’ time.
He was well known to the Haitian community in the United States for his actions in favor of change for Haiti and the improvement of living conditions for Haitians in the diaspora.
In this painful and sorrowful circumstances, CTN’s editorial team offers its sincere condolences to Franklin Dalembert’s family, friends, comrades and all others grieving the sudden passing of the late Franklin Dalembert.
IFSI Assistant Executive Director Franklin Dalembert passed away at age 66
